Cobra PR 250 WX Two Way Radio User Manual
- June 17, 2024
- Cobra
Table of Contents
Cobra PR 250 WX Two Way Radio
Product Information
Specifications
- Model: PR 250 WX
- Country of Manufacture: China
- Part Number: 480-191-P
FAQ
- Q: Where can I order optional accessories for the Cobra PR 250 WX two-way radio?
- A: You can contact your local Cobra dealer or Cobra directly for optional accessories. Only Cobra authorized accessories are recommended.
- Q: What should I do if my radio gets wet?
- A: The radio should be kept away from water or damp places. If the radio gets wet, it is recommended to dry it thoroughly before use.
- Q: What type of batteries should I use?
- A: The Cobra PR 250 WX two-way radio requires four AAA batteries. It is recommended to use high-quality alkaline batteries for optimal performance.
Introduction
Making Life Easier and Safer
Staying in touch with your family and friends is convenient and easy when using your microTALK® radio. Some of the many uses you will discover include: Communicating with others while hiking, biking, and working; keeping track of family and friends at a crowded public event; checking with travel companions in another car; talking with neighbors; arranging meeting spots with others while shopping at the mall.
Secure your microTALK® radio while on the go
- Carrying your microTALK® radio with you is easy when using the belt clip or optional wrist strap.
- The belt clip easily attaches to your belt, purse, or backpack. Simply squeeze the clip and place it where you prefer.
Customer Assistance
For Assistance in Canada or the U.S.A.
In this user’s manual, you should find all the information you need to operate your microTALK® radio. If you require further assistance after reading this manual, Cobra Electronics offers the following customer assistance services:
Automated Help Desk
- English only. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week 773-889-3087 (phone).
Customer Assistance Operators
- English and Spanish. 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CT,
- Monday through Friday (except holidays) 773-889-3087 (phone).
Questions
- English and Spanish. Faxes can be received at 773-622-2269 (fax).
Technical Assistance
- English only. www.cobra.com (on-line: Frequently Asked Questions).
- English and Spanish. [email protected] (e-mail).
For Assistance Outside Canada, the U.S.A. or in French Contact Your Local Dealer.
Product Features
Backlit LCD Display
Features
- Two-Way Radio
- With up to a 8 miles (13 km) range.
- 22 Channels
- Seven shared with FRS/GMRS, seven FRS only, eight GMRS only.
- 38 Privacy Codes
- 10 Channel NOAA
- All Hazards Radio
- Scan
- Channel, privacy code
- Backlit LCD Display
- Call Alert
- Five selectable tones
- Button Lock
- Speaker/Microphone Jack
- Roger Beep
- Selectable On/Off
- Battery/Power Saver
- Keystroke Tones
- Auto Squelch
- Maximum Range Extender
- Belt Clip
Important FCC Licensing Information
- This radio operates on General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) frequencies which require a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) license.
- See licensing and other related information.
Note
- Maximum range may vary and is based on unobstructed line-of-sight communication under ideal conditions.
Caring for Your microTALK® Radio
- Your microTALK® radio will give you years of trouble-free service if cared for properly. Handle the radio gently.
- Keep the radio away from dust. Never put the radio in water or in a damp place.
- Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures.
Batteries
To install or replace batteries:
- Remove belt clip by releasing belt clip latch and sliding clip up.
- Pull up on the battery door latch to remove the battery compartment cover.
- Insert four AAA batteries. (Always use high quality alkaline batteries.) Position batteries according to polarity markings.
- Replace battery compartment cover and belt clip.
Contact your local Cobra dealer or Cobra directly for optional accessories. Only Cobra authorized accessories are recommended.
The Basics to Get You Started
Your microTALK® radio is easy to use.
To get started, simply:
- Press and hold the Mode/Power button to turn on your radio.
- Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button to select a channel.
- Note: Both radios must be tuned to the same channel to communicate.
- Press and hold the Talk button while speaking into the microphone.
- When finished talking, release the Talk button and listen for a response.
Operation
Using Your Radio
Turning on Your microTALK® Radio
To turn on your radio:
- Press and hold the Mode/Power button until you hear a series of audible tones indicating the radio is on.
Your microTALK® radio is now in Standby mode, ready to receive transmissions. The radio is always in Standby mode except when the Talk, Call or Mode/Power buttons are pressed.
Battery Low
- When battery power is low, the Battery Low icon will blink. Your batteries should be replaced or recharged, if using rechargeable batteries.
Auto Battery Save
- Your microTALK® radio has a unique circuit designed to extend battery life. If there are no transmissions within 10 seconds, the radio will automatically switch to Battery Save mode and the Power Saver icon will flash in the display.
- This will not affect the radio’s ability to receive incoming transmissions.
Communicating with Another Person
To talk to another person:
- Press and hold the Talk button.
- With the microphone about two inches (five cm) from your mouth, speak in a normal voice.
- Release the Talk button when you are finished talking and listen for a response.
You cannot receive incoming calls while pressing the Talk button.
Note
- Both radios must be tuned to the same channel to communicate.
Channels
To select a channel:
- With the radio on, select any of the 22 channels by pressing the Channel Up or Channel Down button.
Note: Both radios must be tuned to the same channel to communicate.
- Channels 1 through 7 are shared with FRS/ GMRS. Channels 8 through 14 are FRS only.
- Channels 15 through 22 are GMRS only.
See FRS/GMRS frequency allocations and compatibility charts.
Listening for a Response
When you are finished talking:
- Release the Talk button to receive incoming transmissions. Your microTALK® radio is always in Standby mode while the Talk or Call buttons are not pressed.
Volume
To adjust the volume:
- Press the Volume Up or Volume Down button.
A double beep sound is used to indicate the minimum and maximum volume levels (1 through 8).
Call Button
To alert another person that you are calling:
- Press and release the Call button.
- The other person will hear a two second call tone. You cannot send or receive transmissions during the two second call tone.
See how to select between five call tone settings.
Display Illumination
To illuminate your display:
- Press and release the Light/Max Range button to illuminate the display for 10 seconds.
Auto Squelch/Maximum Range
Your microTALK® radio is equipped with Auto Squelch, which automatically shuts off weak transmissions and unwanted noise due to terrain, conditions or if you’ve reached your Maximum Range limit. You can temporarily turn off auto squelch or turn on maximum range extender, allowing all signals to be received and extending the maximum range of your radio.
To temporarily turn off auto squelch:
- Press the Light/Max Range button for less than five seconds.
If you hear two beeps, you have turned the maximum range extender on (see below).
To turn maximum range extender on:
- Press and hold the Light/Max Range button for at least five seconds until you hear two beeps which indicates the maximum range extender is on.
To turn maximum range extender off:
- Press and release the Light/Max Range button or change channels.
Lock Function
The Lock function locks the Channel Up, Channel Down and Mode/Power buttons to prevent accidental operation.
To turn the lock on or off:
- Press and hold the Lock button for two seconds.
A double beep sound is used to confirm your lock on or off request. When in Lock mode, the Lock icon will be displayed.
Speaker/Microphone Jack
Your microTALK® radio can be fitted with an external Speaker/ Microphone,
freeing your hands for other tasks. Contact your local Cobra dealer or Cobra
directly for optional accessories.
Only Cobra authorized accessories are recommended.
To attach your speaker/microphone:
- Open the speaker/microphone tab on top of your microTALK® radio.
- Insert the plug into the speaker/ microphone jack.
microTALK® Range
Your microTALK® radio has a range of up to 8 miles (13 km).
Your range will vary depending on terrain and conditions.
- In flat, open country your radio will operate at maximum range.
- Buildings and foliage in the path of the signal can reduce the range of the radio.
- Dense foliage and hilly terrain will further reduce the range of the radio.
- On FRS Channels 8 through 14, your radio automatically switches to low power, which will limit the range the radio can communicate.
Remember, you can achieve maximum range by using maximum range extender.
Scrolling Through the Mode Function
By scrolling through the Mode function, you will be able to select or turn on
preferred features of your microTALK® radio.
When scrolling through the Mode function, your radio features will be
displayed in the same predetermined order:
- Set Privacy Code
- Set NOAA All Hazards Radio Channels
- Set Channel Scan
- Set Privacy Code Scan
- Set Call Tones
- Set Roger Beep on/off
CTCSS Privacy Codes
CTCSS (Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System) is an advanced tone coding system
allowing you to select one of 38 privacy codes to reduce interference from
other users on the channel.
If you are using a privacy code, both radios must be tuned to the same channel
and privacy code to communicate. Each channel will remember the last privacy
code you selected.
To select a privacy code:
- After selecting a channel, press the Mode/ Power button until the small numbers next to the channel number flash on the LCD.
- Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button to select a privacy code. You can hold the Channel Up or Channel Down button for fast advance.
- When your desired privacy code is displayed:
- Press the Mode/Power button to enter the new setting and proceed to other functions.
- Press the Lock button to enter the new setting and return to Standby mode.
- Do not press any buttons for 15 seconds to enter the new setting and return to Standby mode.
Mode Functions
*NOAA All Hazards Radio Channels**
You can use your microTALK® radio to listen to NOAA
All Hazards Radio channels transmitting in your area.
To listen to all hazards radio channels:
- Press the Mode button until the Weather (All Hazards Radio) icon and the currently selected All Hazards Radio channel is displayed.
- Use the Channel Up or Channel Down button to change All Hazards Radio channels. Weather (All Hazards Radio) icon will continue to be displayed when All Hazards Radio is on.
- Choose one of the following:
- Press the Mode button to proceed to other functions.
- Press the Lock button to exit All Hazards Radio channels mode and return to Standby mode.
*National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration.
Channel Scan
Your microTALK® radio can automatically scan channels.
To scan channels:
- Press the Mode/Power button until the Scan icon and the channel numbers flash on the display.
- Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button to begin scanning channels.
Note: The radio ignores specific privacy codes while scanning channels.
The Scan icon will continue to be displayed when scan is on. Your radio will continue to scan all channels and stop if an incoming transmission is detected. Your radio will remain on that channel for 10 seconds.
While setting channel scan, if you do not press any buttons for 15 seconds your radio will automatically return to Standby mode on the channel or channel/privacy code displayed before you entered mode functions.
During scanning (while receiving an incoming transmission), you can choose from the following:
- Press and hold the Talk button to communicate on that channel. Your radio will remain on that channel and return to Standby mode.
- Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button to resume scanning channels.
If you press the Talk button while scanning and not within 10 seconds of receiving a transmission, you will transmit on the channel on which you last received a transmission. This will return the radio to Standby mode. If you do not press any button within 10 seconds, your radio will automatically resume scanning channels.
During scanning (while not receiving a transmission), you can choose from the following:
- Press and hold the Talk button to communicate on the channel or channel/privacy code that was displayed before you entered mode functions or the channel on which, during scanning, you last received a transmission. This will return the radio to Standby mode.
- Press the Mode/Power button to proceed to set privacy code scan on the channel that was either displayed before you entered mode functions or on which, during channel scanning, you last received a transmission.
- Press the Lock button to return to Standby mode on the channel/privacy code that was displayed before you entered mode functions or the channel on which, during scanning, you last transmitted or received.
Privacy Code Scan
Your microTALK® radio can automatically scan the Privacy Codes (00 through 38) within one channel.
To scan privacy codes:
- While in Standby mode, press the Channel Up or Channel Down button to choose the channel on which you wish to scan privacy codes.
- Press the Mode/Power button until the Scan icon and the privacy code numbers flash on the display.
- Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button to begin scanning privacy codes within the channel you selected.
The Scan icon will continue to be displayed when privacy code scan is on. Your radio will continue to scan privacy codes and stop as an incoming transmission is detected. Your radio will remain on that channel/privacy code for 10 seconds. While setting privacy code scan, if you do not press any buttons for 15 seconds your radio will automatically return to Standby mode on the channel/privacy code that was displayed before you entered mode functions.
During scanning (while receiving an incoming transmission), you can choose from the following:
- Press and hold the Talk button to communicate on that channel/privacy code. Your radio will remain on that channel/privacy code and return to Standby mode.
- Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button to resume scanning privacy codes.
If you press the Talk button while scanning and not within 10 seconds of receiving a transmission, you will transmit on the channel/privacy code on which you last received a transmission. This will return the radio to Standby mode. If you do not press any button within 10 seconds, your radio will automatically resume scanning privacy codes.
During scanning (while not receiving a transmission), you can choose from the following:
- Press and hold the Talk button to communicate on the channel/privacy code that was displayed before you entered mode functions or the channel/privacy code on which, during scanning, you last received a transmission. This will return the radio to Standby mode.
- Press the Mode/Power button to proceed to other functions.
- Press the Lock button to return to Standby mode on the channel/privacy code that was displayed before you entered mode functions or the channel/privacy code on which, during scanning, you last transmitted or received.
General Specifications
Mode Functions and General Specifications
Five Call Tone Settings
You can choose between five different Call Tone Settings to transmit a unique call alert.
To change a call tone setting:
- Press the Mode/Power button until the letter “C” and the current call tone number (01 through 05) is displayed. The current call tone will sound for one second.
- Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button to hear the other call tone settings.
- Choose one of the following:
- Press the Mode/Power button to enter the new setting and proceed to other functions.
- Press the Lock button to enter the new setting and return to Standby mode.
Roger Beep Confirmation Tone
Your listener will hear an audible tone when you release the Talk button. This alerts the other party that you are finished talking and it is OK for them to speak.
To turn roger beep on or off:
- Press the Mode/Power button until the Roger Beep icon flashes. The current on or off setting is displayed.
- Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button to select roger beep on or off.
- Choose one of the following:
- Press the Mode/Power button to enter the new setting and return to Standby mode.
- Press the Lock button to enter the new setting and return to Standby mode.
General Specifications
FRS/GMRS Frequency Allocation and Compatibility
Important: Please note that Cobra GMRS models with 15 Channels may designate different channel numbers for the same frequency. For example, a Cobra 15 Channel GMRS model would need to be tuned to Channel 11 in order to communicate with a 22 Channel GMRS tuned to Channel 15.
Please refer to the chart below for channel/frequency number compatibility.
- A = Channel No. for 22 Channel GMRS Models
- B = Channel No. for 15 Channel GMRS Models
- C = Type of Radio Service
- D = Frequency in MHz
FCC STATEMENT
Licensing and Product Service
IMPORTANT NOTICE: FCC LICENSE REQUIRED
This two-way radio operates on GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) frequencies which require an FCC (Federal Communications Commission) license. A user must be licensed prior to operating on Channels 1 through 7 or 15 through 22, which comprise the GMRS channels of this radio. Serious penalties could result for unlicensed use of GMRS channels, in violation of FCC rules, as stipulated in the Communications Act’s Sections 501 and 502 (amended).
Licensed users will be issued a call sign by the FCC, which should be used for station identification when operating this radio. GMRS users should also cooperate by engaging in permissible transmissions only, avoiding channel interference with other GMRS users, and being prudent with the length of their transmission time.
For licensing information and application forms, please call the FCC Hotline
at 800-418-FORM. Request form #159 and form #605. Questions regarding the
license application should be directed to the FCC at 888-CALL-FCC.
Additional information is available on the FCC’s website at
www.fcc.gov.
Safety Information for microTALK® Radios
Your wireless handheld portable transceiver contains a low power transmitter. When the talk button is pushed, it sends out radio frequency (RF) signals. The device is authorized to operate at a duty factor not to exceed 50%. In August 1996, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted RF exposure guidelines with safety levels for handheld wireless devices. Important:
FCC RF Exposure Requirements
For body-worn operation, this radio has been tested and meets the FCC RF exposure guidelines when used with Cobra accessories supplied or designated for this product. Use of other accessories may not ensure compliance with FCC RF exposure guidelines. Use only the supplied antenna. Unauthorized antennas, modifications, or attachments could damage the transmitter and may violate FCC regulations.
Normal Position
- Hold the transmitter approximately two inches from your face and speak in a normal voice, with the antenna pointed up and away.
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
- This device may not cause harmful interference
- this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
FCC Warnings: Replacement or substitution of transistors, regular diodes or other parts of a unique nature, with parts other than those recommended by Cobra may cause a violation of the technical regulations of part 95 of the FCC rules, or violation of type acceptance requirements of part 2 of the rules.
Customer Assistance
Product Service Questions
If you have any questions about operation or installing your new Cobra
product, or if you are missing parts…
Please call Cobra first! DO NOT RETURN THIS PRODUCT TO THE STORE! See customer
assistance.
For Products Purchased in the U.S.A.
If your product should require factory service, please call Cobra first before sending your radio. This will ensure the fastest turn-around time on your repair. You may be asked to send your radio to the Cobra factory. It will be necessary to furnish the following to have the product serviced and returned.
- For warranty repair include some form of proof-of-purchase, such as a mechanical reproduction or carbon of a sales receipt. If you send the original receipt, it cannot be returned.
- Send the entire product.
- Enclose a description of what is happening with the radio. Include a typed or clearly printed name and address of where the radio is to be returned.
- Pack radio securely to prevent damage in transit. If possible, use the original packing material.
- Ship prepaid and insured by way of a traceable carrier such as United Parcel Service (UPS) or Priority Mail to avoid loss in transit to Cobra Factory Service, Cobra Electronics Corporation, 6500 West Cortland Street, Chicago, Illinois 60707 U.S.A.
- If the radio is in warranty, upon receipt of your radio it will either be repaired or exchanged depending on the model.
Please allow approximately three to four weeks before contacting Cobra for status. If the radio is out of warranty, a letter will automatically be sent informing you of the repair charge or replacement charge. If you have any questions, please call 773-889-3087 for assistance.
For Products Purchased Outside the U.S.A.
- Please contact your local dealer for product service information.
Warranty and Trademark Acknowledgement
Limited One-Year Warranty
For Products Purchased in the U.S.A.
Cobra Electronics Corporation warrants that its Cobra GMRS radios, and the component parts thereof, will be free of defects in workmanship and materials for a period of one year from the date of first consumer purchase. This warranty may be enforced by the first consumer purchaser, provided that the product is utilized within the U.S.A.
Cobra will, without charge, repair or replace, at its option, defective GMRS radios, products or component parts upon delivery to the Cobra Factory Service department, accompanied by proof of the date of first consumer purchase, such as a duplicated copy of a sales receipt. You must pay any initial shipping charges required to ship the product for warranty service, but the return charges will be at Cobra’s expense, if the product is repaired or replaced under warranty. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to state.
Exclusions
This limited warranty does not apply:
- To any product damaged by accident;
- In the event of misuse or abuse of the product or as a result of unauthorized alterations or repairs;
- If the serial number has been altered, defaced, or removed; 4) If the owner of the product resides outside the U.S.A.
All implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability an fitness for a particular purpose are limited in duration to the length of this warranty. Cobra shall not be liable for any incidental, consequential or other damages; including, without limitation, damages resulting from loss of use or cost of installation. Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts and/or do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations may not apply to you.
For Products Purchased Outside the U.S.A.
- Please contact your local dealer for warranty information.
Trademark Acknowledgement
- Cobra®, microTALK®, Nothing comes close to a Cobra® and the snake design are registered trademarks of Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA.
- Cobra Electronics Corporation™ is a trademark of Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA.
For more information or to order any of our products, please visit our website: www.cobra.com
©2005 Cobra® Electronics Corporation
6500 West Cortland Street Chicago, Illinois 60707 USA
www.cobra.com